Google has launched a free Energy Assessment tool designed to help manufacturers cut both operating costs and carbon emissions by unlocking often-overlooked efficiency opportunities in their facilities. Targeted at plant and sustainability managers, the self-service platform replicates the analytical structure of an entry-level ASHRAE Level 1 energy audit, but without the need to hire external consultants.

The tool addresses three recurring barriers to industrial efficiency: the high cost of professional energy assessments, difficulty securing capital for projects, and a lack of in-house energy expertise. By entering basic facility data, users can generate customized recommendations across more than 20 efficiency opportunities, including air compressors, boilers, chillers, lighting, equipment upgrades, operational tweaks, and on-site solar installations. The platform also enables companies to compare multiple plants side by side, helping them prioritize investments with the biggest impact on cost and emissions.

Beyond single sites, the tool is built for portfolio and supply-chain use. It includes collaboration features that allow teams to work together on assessments and invite upstream suppliers to participate, extending efficiency gains “up the value chain” and supporting efforts to tackle Scope 3 emissions. This aligns with Google’s broader push to decarbonize its supply chain and encourage partners to move toward cleaner energy.

Data security and usability for global suppliers are core design elements. The platform is operated by a third party and has been reviewed against Google’s privacy and security standards, with suppliers retaining control over what data they share and with whom. Users can opt to share only aggregated savings figures rather than detailed operational data. To support key manufacturing regions, the interface is available in English, simplified and traditional Chinese, Thai, and Vietnamese.

Strategically, Google positions the Energy Assessment tool as a way to turn high-level climate ambition into actionable projects in an area, industrial energy efficiency, that experts see as one of the fastest, lowest-cost levers for decarbonization. In a context of volatile power prices, tighter ESG reporting rules, and growing pressure on Scope 3 emissions, the free tool lowers the entry barrier for manufacturers looking to build more resilient, low-carbon operations.

Source:

https://esgnews.com/google-launches-free-tool-to-accelerate-industrial-energy-efficiency/

https://onestopesg.com/esg-news/google-unveils-free-energy-assessment-tool-to-help-manufacturers-cut-costs-and-carbon-1763739520792